Rugby Academy Ireland  Reviews 

Our daughter, Eabha, took part in the TY programme last year, and to say she enjoyed it would be an understatement. From the incredible coaches who supported and encouraged her, to the lifelong friendships she made along the way, the experience has been truly transformational.We have seen such a positive change in her attitude towards rugby and her overall approach to the sport. One of the most noticeable improvements has been her understanding of nutrition. She went from being the girl who would grab something small before a match to someone who now plans and prepares her own meals, making sure she fuels her body properly for both training and games.The academy has opened so many doors for her, both on and off the pitch. This summer, she travelled to Germany to play rugby, an experience she absolutely loved, and she has already been invited back again.One moment that really stood out to us was when we were recently driving through Stradbally and Eabha said she would do anything to have another year in the academy. That says more than we ever could about the impact the programme has had on her. The memories, friendships, opportunities and personal growth she gained from the experience have clearly stayed with her.As parents, we could not be happier with everything the academy has given her. It has helped her grow in confidence, develop as a rugby player, and learn valuable life skills that extend far beyond the game itself. We would wholeheartedly recommend the programme to any parent considering it for their child. The positive influence it has had on Eabha's development, both as an athlete and as a young person, has been truly remarkable.
Thank you Rugby Academy

A week-long intensive training camp at RAI Academy has just come to an end! An extraordinary experience that we’ll definitely repeat next year. Elite, exceptional coaches who pay close attention to every technical detail of rugby. A comprehensive and holistic camp that can significantly correct and improve the athletic performance of young rugby players! The fact that RAI Academy has all the facilities on campus—a heated pool for recovery, a weight room, a training field, accommodations, and meals—plus a team of extraordinary international coaches makes this camp one of the best in Europe! Thank you to Dan van Zyl, the coaching staff—Fede Gonzales and Johan—RAI Academy, and the entire staff for your support, care, and all the lessons from this week’s camp!

It all started as a simple birthday present: two weeks at the RAI Rugby Academy summer camp. I had no idea that experience would have such a profound impact on my son. He enjoyed it so much that, despite being introverted and shy, he chose to spend an entire season, from September to April, at Stradbally Hall.
He arrived with a serious knee injury, but thanks to Dan’s staff and their attentive, highly professional work, he returned to the field as good as new. When he came back to Italy, his teammates couldn’t believe their eyes: “How did you manage to grow so much physically?” And it wasn’t just physical growth. The focus on individual skills, tactics, and game vision completely transformed the way he plays. I had the chance to watch him in the final of a tournament in Ireland, a final his team won, and I saw a different player: more aggressive, more aware, more precise in his decisions. In short, a new version of himself. Dan, Johan, Jac & co: thank you from the bottom of my heart for your professionalism, but above all for the kind of people you are. You played a decisive role in my son’s growth, and for a parent, that means everything.

My Son just spent 8 months at the academy. Loving every minute of it. Professional coaching fantastic facilities. Amazing accommodation. He learned so much there. Not just about the game but becoming more independent in life itself. Made great friendships that will last a lifetime. Would highly recommend it for anyone dreaming of making rugby there career.

My son had an incredible experience at the immersive rugby camp! He learned so much, noticeably improved his skills, and most importantly, built great friendships along the way. A huge thank you to Dan and the rest of the RAI coaching team for their dedication, support, and passion — it truly made a difference.

My daughter did one week in Stradbally this summer, she thoroughly enjoyed the week, so much so that she wants to go back for more. She learnt new skills, improved her rugby, made new friends and even learnt to cook ! Thanks to all the coaches and staff for looking after her so well.

My second year in the academy and it was a really good experience in rugby and also to improve your personal skills. I recommend this camp 100% to any rugby player to become a better rugby player

My son just finished 2 weeks in a row with RAI in Cork and Roscrea! He came absolutely with the wondered with RAI organisation, methodology and groupe spirit!
Unfortunately he won’t be there next year… next year he wants to bring Dan and his coaches team to Portugal for an all Year!!!

it’s been a great week, made of skill’s work, gym sessions and fun activities. All the involved were nice and prepared for any inconvenience. The structure were nice, and the food were good.

My son has recently finished the Transition Year (TY) residential course at Rugby Academy Ireland, and the coaching he received was outstanding! This program not only offered him high-quality rugby training but also equipped him with vital life skills and educational qualifications that he wouldn't have been able to gain through the standard school TY programs. Throughout the course, I was kept well-informed about his progress, and I highly recommend this experience.

To be coached by different coaches throughout the week and they stay true to what they promise you. Strongly recommend it.

great experience which helped me getting better at my rugby game understanding and my rugby skills. Also got a chance to met people from all over the globe who Im still in contact with.

Unbelievable experience highly recommend for anyone looking to become a better rugby player

Excellent courses and experiences offered

The memories the skill we learned everything was just right and what i wanted and expected it to be❤️

I liked the experience of a 2 week base only on rugby player in the Academy and the possibility tò train with different coaches and the attention of those in the tecnical aspect of any single player.
On the other hand I would have prefered to have more Freedom and a longer brake after lunch